| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 10 mins – 12 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 375 | 18g | 8g | 49g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 29g | 2g | 5g | 0.20g |
While I’m renowned for my bison burgers and huckleberry pies, there’s a sweet treat that I hold close to my heart – Spiced Prune Cookies. These delightful cookies merge the traditional earthiness of Montana’s ranch-style fare with indigenous fruits, making them a mesmerizing retreat into the combination of simplicity and artefact culinary techniques. This recipe shines amongst the countless others due to its healthy twist on classic sweet tooth indulgence.
A Twist on Tradition
While sugar cookies and chocolate chips remain synonymous with the word ‘cookie’, the Spiced Prune Cookies introduce a captivating shift in flavor dynamics. The prunes, with their sweet and tart flavor, work gracefully with the aromatic blend of spices to offer a cookie that is luscious and not overly sweet.
There’s a lot of heart in each bite of this cookie – it reminds me of my childhood spent in the breathtakingly beautiful landscapes of Montana. But more importantly, it’s equivalent to revisiting the Native American traditions that were shared with me over crackling fires and shared meals. The expressions of surprise and delight on the faces of those who taste it for the first time are priceless.
Healthful Indulgence
Moreover, these Spiced Prune Cookies are not just about taste and tradition – they also come with a whole host of health benefits. Prunes, the star ingredient in these cookies, are rich sources of Vitamins A, K, and fiber. Their high fiber content is particularly beneficial in supporting digestive health. Plus, the inclusion of walnuts introduces an excellent source of Omega-3, proteins, and antioxidants.
The foundational spices – cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves – give these cookies not only a complex flavor but also numerous health advantages. Cinnamon is touted for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, while nutmeg is a good source of minerals like magnesium, potassium, and calcium. Cloves, although used sparingly, provide a strong punch of antioxidants. So, what you’re getting is a much healthier version of a cookie that doesn’t skimp on the taste.
These cookies would pair brilliantly with your afternoon tea, or serve as a thoughtful counterpart to some vanilla ice cream or Montana Huckleberry Pie. Their elegance lies in their adaptability, complementing a multitude of flavors while standing proudly on their own.
Trying this recipe is like embarking on a unique culinary adventure. It is a blend of my Montana landscapes, Native American teachings and the exploration of new flavors. It’s my hope that as you prepare and share these cookies, you too will feel part of this beautiful history and balanced co-existence.
What You’ll Need
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup chopped prunes
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Method
Step One
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease or line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
Step Two
In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon baking soda, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg, and 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves.
Step Three
In a large bowl, beat 1/2 cup softened unsalted butter and 3/4 cup packed brown sugar using an electric mixer until fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
Step Four
Beat in 1 large egg and 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract into the butter and sugar mixture until it is well combined.
Step Five
Gradually add the flour mixture into the butter and sugar mixture. Mix until just combined. Do not overmix to avoid tough cookies.
Step Six
Fold in 1 cup chopped prunes and 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (if using) into the dough.
Step Seven
Drop rounded spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Ensure they are spaced about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading while baking.
Step Eight
Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
Step Nine
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy your Spiced Prune Cookies.
